The first-date safety checklist

Good preparation should make a date feel easier, not frightening. Use a few simple systems so you can focus on the person while keeping control of your plans.

Before agreeing to meet

• Have a short live video call.
• Keep your home address and workplace private.
• Tell a friend the person's profile name, meeting place, and expected finish time.
• Use your own transport in both directions.
• Avoid relying on your date for accommodation, money, or travel.

Choose a plan you can change easily

Meet in a staffed public place during a busy period. A café, casual restaurant, or public event is easier to leave than a private residence, remote trail, hotel room, or long car journey. Keep the first meeting relatively short and extend it only if you feel comfortable.

Limit alcohol or anything that could affect your judgment. Keep your phone charged, maintain access to your own payment method, and avoid leaving a drink unattended.

Use a simple check-in system

Agree on a time when a friend will expect a message. Share live location only with someone you trust—not automatically with the date. Create a neutral phrase you can text if you want your friend to call and provide an easy reason to leave.

If the person pressures you to change locations, ignores boundaries, or makes you feel unsafe, leave. Courtesy is never more important than safety.